The statue was installed in 1968, inspired by the original Manneken Pis in Brussels, Belgium.
The drop below the statue into the Iya River is approximately 200 meters, making it one of the deepest river gorges in Shikoku.
The location was selected to highlight the daring spirit of local children who historically competed to see who could urinate furthest over the edge.
The statue is frequently adorned with seasonal clothing or festive decorations by local community members.
The Iya Valley, where the statue resides, is historically significant for its isolation and association with the fleeing Taira clan.
The Peeing Boy statue, locally known as Manneken Pis of the Iya Valley, stands on a precarious cliff edge overlooking the Iya River. The bronze figure is positioned 200 meters above the valley floor to simulate a local legend of children and travelers testing their courage by urinating into the abyss. It is located along the winding Iya Valley Road in the Iya Gorge, a region designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. The statue was erected in 1968 to commemorate the construction of the surrounding mountain road. The surrounding Iya Gorge is known for its steep V-shaped valleys and dense forested slopes.
From the roadside turnout that allows for a clear angle of the statue against the backdrop of the valley floor.
Use the dedicated roadside parking pull-out to view the statue safely.
Visit during autumn to see the surrounding mountain foliage change color, which is considered the most scenic time.
Exercise extreme caution when standing near the edge of the guardrails as the slope is very steep.
Do not attempt to climb or lean over the safety railings to get closer to the statue as the cliff face is loose and unstable.
